Finland condemns Iran attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, joining 19 other nations in a statement that highlights the threat to global energy supplies while making clear it will not take part in combat operations in the Gulf. President Alexander Stubb signed the statement alongside leaders from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, and Canada. On X, Stubb said it “condemns Iran’s recent attacks on commercial vessels and attempts to disrupt commercial shipping” and called for full respect for international law.
The joint statement described Iran’s actions as targeting unarmed vessels and energy infrastructure, effectively closing the strait. Roughly one fifth of the world’s oil passes through this narrow waterway. Leaders warned that further disruption could deepen instability in energy markets and threaten international security. They urged Iran to halt mining, missile strikes, and drone attacks and stressed compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817. Freedom of navigation, they said, must be upheld.
Signatories pledged to support efforts to ensure safe passage through the strait and to assist states affected by the disruptions through United Nations programs and financial institutions.
The statement has drawn criticism online, with some questioning why it singles out Iran while ignoring actions by the United States and Israel. Critics argued that earlier strikes and regional tensions contributed to the escalation and called Finland’s response inconsistent. Some pointed to Finland’s support for Israel amid ongoing violence in Gaza and noted the country continues arms purchases from Israel. Others highlighted the silence of EU nations on alleged war crimes in the region, including attacks on civilians and schools.
Observers warned the conflict is increasingly moving toward military solutions, limiting the space for diplomacy. Escalation, they said, risks widening the conflict and further destabilizing global energy markets.
Questions arose about whether signing the statement could lead to military involvement. Finland has been clear it will not participate in combat operations. Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen told MTV News that signing the statement “does not mean that Finland is taking part in military action.” She emphasized that any Finnish role would follow national procedures and coordination with partner countries. Options discussed include staff officer support rather than naval deployment.
Valtonen also told Yle that Finland will not send military equipment to reopen the strait. Officials confirmed no requests have been made for Finnish participation, and no operation has been launched. President Stubb said any Finnish contribution would remain minimal, focused solely on supporting maritime security without direct combat involvement.
